This article reviews the history and current status of vascular endothelial growth factor targeted therapy for the most common gynecologic malignancies - epithelial ovarian, endometrial and cervical cancers. The biologic rationale for targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) for these disease sites is well-founded, and pre-clinical studies have supported the development of anti-VEGF agents. Their classification, known mechanisms of action, unique toxicities and clinical development are herein explored, the latter including issues related to study design, disease site and disease setting.
Keywords: Angiogenesis; Bevacizumab; Cervical neoplasms; Endometrial neoplasms; Ovarian neoplasms; Vascular endothelial growth factor.